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Best nature trips hikes in Scottish Borders
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Best nature trips hikes in Scottish Borders

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Scottish Borders.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

St Abb's Head from St Abbs

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.5 (23) · 6.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 33 min

2

Easy

Cademuir Hill and River Tweed Loop from Peebles

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.6 (30) · 13.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 8 min

3

Medium

Windy Gyle Loop from Belford

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.6 (12) · 26.7 km · Est. 2 days

4

Easy

Grubbit Law and Hownam Law from Morebattle

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.5 (20) · 11.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 52 min

5

Difficult

Green Law - Brown Dod and Trahenna Hill Loop via Broughton Place

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.7 (19) · 15.6 km · Est. 2 days

6

Medium

Trahenna Hill from Broughton

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.2 (26) · 11.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 57 min

7

Easy

St Mary's Loch Circular

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.7 (16) · 12.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 40 min

8

Medium

Broad Law from the Megget Stone

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.6 (20) · 7.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 7 min

9

Easy

Eildon Hills and River Tweed Loop

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.4 (17) · 23.2 km · Est. 2 days

10

Medium

Melrose and the Eildon Hills

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 4.4 (20) · 7.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 13 min

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Reviews for nature trips hikes in Scottish Borders

Ian Fox avatar

St Abb's Head from St Abbs

Lakes_Fox · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

irene avatar

Cademuir Hill and River Tweed Loop from Peebles

clyderunner · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Nice walk, lovely clear view from the summit today. And nice walk back into Peebles for Ice cream.

Mercedes O'Reilly avatar

Windy Gyle Loop from Belford

OutbackSpruceseeker97 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Rolando Torp avatar

Grubbit Law and Hownam Law from Morebattle

SeekerWalker19 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Gerry Kovacek I avatar

Green Law - Brown Dod and Trahenna Hill Loop via Broughton Place

CairnAdventurer49 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Scottish Borders

What is the climate like for hiking in Scotland?

Scotland's climate shifts with each season, requiring keen attention for hiking adventures. The mild, potentially wet spring months are invigorating, with blossoming flora and longer daylight hours enhancing the scenic experience. Rainproof gear is essential to counter unpredictable showers. More at https://www.mwis.org.uk/forecasts/scottish.
Summers, typically June to August, offer the most hospitable hiking climate. Though occasionally rainy, the temperatures hover around a comfortable 15°C - 20°C, with up to 18 hours of daylight to fully exploit the trails. Careful monitoring of midge activity is vital for a hassle-free experience. https://www.livebreathescotland.com/midges-in-scotland/
Autumn brings a dazzling display of changing colours, but the weather, much like spring, can be erratic. Temperatures begin to drop, and daylight hours shrink rapidly, restricting hiking time. Winters are challenging with shorter days, snowfall, and icy trails. For the experienced, it presents a unique, exhilarating challenge. Check https://www.mountaineering.scot/. Best to avoid winter unless highly experienced.

Do I need a permit to hike in Scotland?

Unlike certain parts of the world, Scotland boasts the "Right to Roam," making hiking unrestricted and accessible. As such, there are no permits required for general hiking. However, wild camping regulations in places like Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park require adherence. Details at Wild Camping Guidelines.

Is wild camping allowed in Scotland?

In Scotland, wild camping is legal and widely enjoyed by hikers due to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. Yet, restrictions apply in certain areas, especially from March to September, like Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. It's crucial to respect the Outdoor Access Code. Explore more at Outdoor Access Code.

Are there mountain rescue services in Scotland?

In case of a hiking emergency in Scotland, contacting the police is paramount as they coordinate with Mountain Rescue teams. Dial 999, ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Consider registering with the emergency SMS service for areas with poor signal. Further details at Mountain Rescue Scotland.

Are there dangerous plants in Scotland?

Scotland's rich biodiversity paints the trails with varied flora. Expect heather moorlands in the Highlands, ancient woodlands in Caledonian Pine forests, and bluebell fields in spring. Be wary of certain plants like bracken, which can harbor ticks. For more flora information, refer to https://www.nature.scot/plants-animals-and-fungi/flowering-plants.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Scotland?

Scotland's wildlife ranges from benign red deer in the Highlands to the notorious midges prevalent in warm, damp conditions. Caution is advised around adders, Scotland's only venomous snake. Observe marine life in coastal regions. Learn more at https://www.wildguidescotland.com/.

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